IT could be three out as well as three in for HYDE UNITED who face Evo-stik NPL title-chasers Farsley Celtic at Ewen Fields tomorrow (Saturday).
Manager Darren Kelly has made two signings and promoted an academy player, but he may have to go into the game without the impressive Tom Pratt who faces a fitness test in the morning.
Chib Chilaka, just back after a three-match ban, is unable to play because of a family bereavement. Kyle Brownhill remains sidelined with concussion.
The new players are Irish midfielder Adam O’Reilly, signed on a month’s loan from Preston North End, and Rotherham defender Akeem Hinds, who comes in on a youth loan. Academy lad Sean Corcoran can play at left-back or on the left of midfield.
Tomorrow’s clash is a tough one to call. Although the Tigers won last week, their form has been inconsistent since the turn of the year. Similarly, Farsley have lost two of their last four games.
Interestingly, both clubs recorded a victory over Workington in their last match.
STALYBRIDGE CELTIC, who have lost their last four league outings, have a free weekend.
Co-bosses Peter Band and Lloyd Morrison, who finally seem to have got GLOSSOP NORTH END picking up points, have today signed midfielder Kayde Coppin from Derbyshire neighbours Buxton.
Coppin, who has played for several clubs including Ashton United and Mossley, goes straight into the squad for tomorrow’s first division west visit by Prescot Cables who lost at Seel Park last Saturday.
The Hillmen have no injuries or suspensions to worry about.
Injury means Shaq Clarke misses DROYLSDEN’s trip to Kidsgrove Athletic. Dylan Smith is suspended and Phil Marsh has quit the Butchers Arms to go in search of regular first-team football.
MOSSLEY’s promotion chase has to go on hold as they have no match.
In National League North, both Ashton clubs are at home. CURZON ASHTON entertain Blyth Spartans with the same squad as last week. Mo Ali remains the only man sidelined through injury. Striker Adam Morgan is back in training.
ASHTON UNITED are home to Bradford Park Avenue, the side with whom the Nash drew 2-2 last week. Manager Jody Banim believes his side can get the better of the Yorkshiremen, and wants revenge for last November’s 3-2 defeat when the Robins surrendered a 2-0 lead.
Striker Craig Hobson returns but Liam Martin is ruled out with a knee injury. Paul Ennis has been allowed to move to Northwich Victoria on a dual registration.